POTASSII BICARBONAS—POTASSIUM BICARBONATE
Derivation.—Potassium bicarbonate is obtained by saturating a strong aqueous solution of potassium carbonate and carbonic anhydride.
Properties.—Colorless, transparent, monoclinic prisms, odorless and having a saline and slightly alkaline taste. Permanent in the air. Soluble in water. Almost soluble in alcohol.
Dose.—Same as potassium carbonate.
Action and Uses.—They stimulate the production of gastric juice when administered before meals with bitter tonics, or after meals to overcome excessive acidity of the stomach; used in rheumatism and gouty condition to make blood alkaline and overcome lactic acid. Useful as an antacid in nettle-rash and other itching skin diseases. Internally and externally as a mild wash, two to four drachms to the pint. A solution of the same strength is injected to overcome acidity of the uterus in leucorrhoea, etc. Calculus made up of ammonium, magnesium and phosphates occur in the bladder and urethra of highly fed rams and wethers. For this use potassium bicarbonate one-half to one drachm, well diluted, conjoined with laxative diet and belladonna to dilate urethra; it is less certain as a diuretic than the acetate or nitrate of potassium.
POTASSII HYDROXIDUM—POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE—CAUSTIC POTASH
Derivation.—A solution hydrate is evaporated, and this is fused and run into moulds.
Properties.—White, translucent pencils or fused masses, hard and brittle, showing a crystalline fracture; odorless or having a faint odor of lye and a very acid and caustic taste. Very deliquescent in air. Soluble in water and alcohol.
Not used in this form to any extent.